If you or anyone you know is experiencing thoughts of self harm, call or text 9-8-8 for the suicide hotline or 2-1-1 for non-emergency support services and resources.
The rain that had been falling over Kelowna stopped for a few hours on the evening of Nov. 20, while a group of people gathered in Stuart Park to remember those who have been killed in acts of anti-trans violence over the last year.
Over the last year, there have been 350 reported deaths of transgender, gender non-binary, and gender non-conforming folks worldwide. The day of remembrance was first held in 1999, to remember a woman who was killed in an anti-trans attack.
The annual vigil was held by the vice president of the 2SLGBTQIA+ advocacy and inclusion-based organization.
a resource for transgender, non binary and gender non-conforming people said in a statement that as visibility queer communities increase, so too has there been an "observable rise in misinformation about trans, Two-Spirit and non-binary (TTNB) people and gender-affirming care."
The prevalence of misinformation has impacted the degree to which anti-trans backlash is experienced, particularly for trans-feminine and racialized TTNB folks, said Trans Care BC in an article on the Day of Remembrance.
At the vigil, McWatters made a point of noting that the hundreds of names that were read to the group gathered in Stuart Park is likely not complete, and does not include the names of those who died by suicide due to a lack of social acceptance.
"This is an opportunity to have a solemn event to acknowledge that the world is not always that kind, and that transphobia and violence against transgender people exists. It is to remember those that we lost and to move forward and to make the world a better place," said McWatters.
At the vigil, several people shared stories of times they have been berated and feared for their lives in public because they were not conforming with social gender norms. One person shared that last week a vehicle yelled derogatory comments and swerved towards them while they were walking because they were wearing lipstick.
Multiple people, ranging from teenagers to people in their 60s, shared stories about how they have considered self-harm after being shamed for expressing their gender identity.
McWatters encourages people to reach out to Advocacy Canada, herself or support groups if they want to speak with someone.
She also encourages allies to check-in and stand up for their friends. An easy way for allies to demonstrate support is to use inclusive language and respect people91ÂãÁÄÊÓƵ™s pronouns and chosen names.
People looking to get involved, find community or step up as an ally are encouraged to visit orto learn more.
